By James Murimi - Reporter
Kenya, June 28, 2026 - President William Ruto on Sunday used the 60th anniversary celebrations of Burieruri Boys Senior School in Meru County to deliver a strong message on discipline, warning that indiscipline in schools threatens not only education but also the country's future.
Speaking at the institution in Maua, the President said recent incidents of unrest in schools should serve as a wake-up call to students, parents and teachers, insisting that academic excellence must go hand in hand with good character.
"In recent weeks, our nation has watched with deep concern incidents of unrest in some of our schools, causing anxiety among parents, distress among teachers and concern across the country. These events should make all of us reflect," he said.
Ruto noted that education is not merely about passing examinations but about shaping responsible citizens capable of resolving differences peacefully and making sound life choices.
"Hear this truth and carry it for life. Every choice you make writes a chapter of your future. Some mistakes pass with time. Others leave scars that last a lifetime. Before you act, ask yourself one question: Will this decision make my future greater or diminish it?" he told learners.
The President described discipline as the country's greatest need, arguing that talent and intelligence alone are insufficient without strong moral character.
"Our country does not merely need educated young people; it needs disciplined ones. Knowledge may sharpen the mind, but only discipline governs its use. Talent without discipline is wasted. Freedom without discipline descends into disorder," he said.
He challenged parents to play a more active role in raising their children, saying schools cannot shoulder the responsibility alone.
"A school can educate a child, but it cannot raise one alone. Be present in your children's lives. Know their friends. Understand their struggles. Walk beside them through every milestone and every season," he said.
Ruto also called for a return to traditional African values where communities collectively guided and protected children.
Reflecting on Burieruri Boys' six-decade journey, the President praised the Methodist Church and the Igembe community for establishing an institution that has transformed generations through education and discipline.
He said the government would continue partnering with faith-based organisations and local communities to expand access to quality education across the country.
The President defended his administration's investment in education, noting that the sector now receives nearly 30 per cent of the national budget, rising from Sh526 billion in 2022 to Sh784 billion in the 2026/27 financial year.
He said the government has recruited 100,000 teachers, with another 24,000 set to join the profession, built more than 23,000 classrooms and is constructing 1,600 modern science laboratories to strengthen science and technology education.
Ruto further defended the government's higher education funding reforms and said schools have consistently received capitation before opening for two consecutive terms, ensuring learning is not disrupted.
The President reiterated that every child, regardless of where they are born, deserves equal educational opportunities.
"Talent is distributed across Kenya. Opportunity must be too. No county is too distant. No community is too small. No child is too far away to matter," he said.
Congratulating Burieruri Boys on its 60th anniversary, Ruto urged the institution to continue producing graduates distinguished not only by academic success but also by integrity, purpose and commitment to serving the nation.
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